This document provides information about atomic bombs and their consequences. It discusses various types of nuclear reactions including fusion, fission, spallation, and induced gamma emission. Fission reactions can result in uncontrolled chain reactions powering nuclear weapons. The document outlines the basic types of nuclear weapons including pure fission weapons, boosted fission weapons, thermonuclear weapons, and enhanced radiation weapons. It provides details on how each type of weapon works and its intended use and yield.

1. ATOMIC BOMBS andATOMIC BOMBS and
THEIR CONSEQUENCESTHEIR CONSEQUENCES

2. ByBy
MARIAM AWANMARIAM AWAN
ROLL NO:1159ROLL NO:1159
BS(H)PHYSICSBS(H)PHYSICS
77thth
SEMESTERSEMESTER
UNDER THE SUPERVISIONUNDER THE SUPERVISION
OFOF
SIR ATTIQUE KHAN SHAHIDSIR ATTIQUE KHAN SHAHID

3. NUCLEAR REACTIONSNUCLEAR REACTIONS
 InIn nuclear physicsnuclear physics, a, a nuclear reactionnuclear reaction is the processis the process
in which twoin which two nucleinuclei oror nuclear particlesnuclear particles collide tocollide to
produce products different from the initial particles.produce products different from the initial particles.
 the transformation is spontaneous in the case ofthe transformation is spontaneous in the case of
radioactive decayradioactive decay, and is initiated by a particle in the, and is initiated by a particle in the
case of a nuclear reaction.case of a nuclear reaction.
 If the particles collide and separate without changing,If the particles collide and separate without changing,
the process is called an elasticthe process is called an elastic collisioncollision rather than arather than a
reaction.reaction.

4. TYPES OF NUCLEARTYPES OF NUCLEAR
REACTIONSREACTIONS
 the number of possible nuclear reactions is immense, there are severalthe number of possible nuclear reactions is immense, there are several
types which are more common.types which are more common.
 FusionFusion reactions - two light nuclei join to form a heavier one, withreactions - two light nuclei join to form a heavier one, with
additional particles (usually protons or neutrons) thrown off to conserveadditional particles (usually protons or neutrons) thrown off to conserve
momentum.momentum.
 FissionFission reactions - a very heavy nucleus, spontaneously or after absorbingreactions - a very heavy nucleus, spontaneously or after absorbing
additional light particles (usually neutrons), splits into two or sometimesadditional light particles (usually neutrons), splits into two or sometimes
three pieces. (α decay is not usually called fission.)three pieces. (α decay is not usually called fission.)
 SpallationSpallation - a nucleus is hit by a particle with sufficient energy and- a nucleus is hit by a particle with sufficient energy and
momentum to knock out several small fragments or, smash it into manymomentum to knock out several small fragments or, smash it into many
fragments.fragments.
 Induced gamma emissionInduced gamma emission belongs to a class in which only photons werebelongs to a class in which only photons were
involved in creating and destroying states of nuclear excitation.involved in creating and destroying states of nuclear excitation.

5. NUCLEAR FISSIONNUCLEAR FISSION
 When a nucleus fissions, itWhen a nucleus fissions, it
splits into several smallersplits into several smaller
fragments. These fragments,fragments. These fragments,
or fission products, areor fission products, are
about equal to half theabout equal to half the
original mass. Two or threeoriginal mass. Two or three
neutrons are also emitted.neutrons are also emitted.
 Fission can occur when aFission can occur when a
nucleus of a heavy atomnucleus of a heavy atom
captures a neutron, or it cancaptures a neutron, or it can
happen spontaneouslyhappen spontaneously

6. FISSION CHAIN REACTIONSFISSION CHAIN REACTIONS
 A chain reaction refers to aA chain reaction refers to a
process in which neutronsprocess in which neutrons
released in fission producereleased in fission produce
an additional fission in atan additional fission in at
least one further nucleus.least one further nucleus.
This nucleus in turnThis nucleus in turn
produces neutrons, and theproduces neutrons, and the
process repeats.process repeats.
 The process may beThe process may be
controlled (nuclear power)controlled (nuclear power)
or uncontrolled (nuclearor uncontrolled (nuclear
weapons).weapons).

7. UNCONTROLLED FISSION &UNCONTROLLED FISSION &
NUCLEAR WEAPONSNUCLEAR WEAPONS
 AA nuclear weaponnuclear weapon is an explosive device that derivesis an explosive device that derives
its destructive force fromits destructive force from nuclear reactionsnuclear reactions, either, either
fissionfission or a combination of fission andor a combination of fission and fusionfusion. Both. Both
reactions release vast quantities of energy fromreactions release vast quantities of energy from
relatively small amounts of matter.relatively small amounts of matter.
 Nuclear weapons are consideredNuclear weapons are considered
weapons of mass destructionweapons of mass destruction, and their use and, and their use and
control has been a major aspect of internationalcontrol has been a major aspect of international
policy since their debut.policy since their debut.

8. TYPES OF NUCLEAR WEAPONSTYPES OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS
 From the military usage point of view, they areFrom the military usage point of view, they are
classified asclassified as
 Tactical weaponsTactical weapons
 Strategic weaponsStrategic weapons
 Tactical weapons are low yield weapons that meant toTactical weapons are low yield weapons that meant to
be used in the battlefield against military formations.be used in the battlefield against military formations.
 Strategic weapons are high yield weapons to be usedStrategic weapons are high yield weapons to be used
against civilian populations in big cities.against civilian populations in big cities.

9. BASIC TYPES OF NUCLEARBASIC TYPES OF NUCLEAR
WEAPONSWEAPONS
 The basic types of weapons that have beenThe basic types of weapons that have been
built or conceived of are described below:built or conceived of are described below:
 Pure fission weaponsPure fission weapons
 Boosted fission weaponsBoosted fission weapons
 Thermonuclear weaponsThermonuclear weapons
 Enhanced radiation weapons (ERW)Enhanced radiation weapons (ERW)
 Salted nuclear weaponsSalted nuclear weapons

10. PURE FISSION WEAPONSPURE FISSION WEAPONS
 Weapons in which only the fission reaction takesWeapons in which only the fission reaction takes
place are called pure fission weapons or simplyplace are called pure fission weapons or simply
fission weapons.e.g, The bombs that were dropped atfission weapons.e.g, The bombs that were dropped at
Hiroshima and Nagasaki were both fission bombs.Hiroshima and Nagasaki were both fission bombs.
 They could be either tactical or strategic weapons.They could be either tactical or strategic weapons.
 These are the simplest nuclear weapons to design andThese are the simplest nuclear weapons to design and
build. They form the basis for developing other typesbuild. They form the basis for developing other types
of weapons.of weapons.
 Their yield can range from a few tons to about a fewTheir yield can range from a few tons to about a few
hundred kilotons.hundred kilotons.

11. BOOSTED FISSION WEAPONSBOOSTED FISSION WEAPONS
 The efficiency of a fission weapon can be increased dramatically byThe efficiency of a fission weapon can be increased dramatically by
introducing a small amount of material that can undergo fusion. Suchintroducing a small amount of material that can undergo fusion. Such
weapons are called boosted fission weapons.weapons are called boosted fission weapons.
 These are fission fusion fission weapons. In boosted weapons, the fissionThese are fission fusion fission weapons. In boosted weapons, the fission
reaction takes place first and produces the required temperatures andreaction takes place first and produces the required temperatures and
densities for the fusion reaction. The fusion in turn accelerates the fissiondensities for the fusion reaction. The fusion in turn accelerates the fission
reaction.reaction.
 The fusion only serves to help the fission process go faster and hence makeThe fusion only serves to help the fission process go faster and hence make
the weapon more efficient. It contributes only about 1% of the yield.the weapon more efficient. It contributes only about 1% of the yield.
 Since boosted fission weapons are more efficient than pure fissionSince boosted fission weapons are more efficient than pure fission
weapons, they can be made lighter for the same yield. So most of theweapons, they can be made lighter for the same yield. So most of the
fission weapons deployed today are boosted fission weaponsfission weapons deployed today are boosted fission weapons

12. THERMONUCLEAR WEAPONSTHERMONUCLEAR WEAPONS
 Thermonuclear weapons, also called hydrogen bombs, getThermonuclear weapons, also called hydrogen bombs, get
most of their yield from the fusion reaction.most of their yield from the fusion reaction.
 They require a fission explosion to trigger fusion, called theThey require a fission explosion to trigger fusion, called the
primary stage.primary stage.
 To initiate the fusion reaction is called the secondary stage.To initiate the fusion reaction is called the secondary stage.
 However unlike the boosted weapons, thermonuclear weaponsHowever unlike the boosted weapons, thermonuclear weapons
contain a substantial amount of fusion fuel and most of theircontain a substantial amount of fusion fuel and most of their
yield comes from fusion. Indeed these are the most powerfulyield comes from fusion. Indeed these are the most powerful
of nuclear weapons, often with yields of a few megatons.of nuclear weapons, often with yields of a few megatons.
 A third fission stage named as Tertiary can also be added toA third fission stage named as Tertiary can also be added to
produce very high yield weapons.produce very high yield weapons.

13. ENHANCED RADIATIONENHANCED RADIATION
WEAPONSWEAPONS
 Enhanced radiation weapons, also calledEnhanced radiation weapons, also called
neutron bombs are small tacticalneutron bombs are small tactical
thermonuclear weapons which are designed tothermonuclear weapons which are designed to
produce intense nuclear radiation.produce intense nuclear radiation.
 These weapons are designed to kill soldiersThese weapons are designed to kill soldiers
protected by armour (eg. inside tanks). Theprotected by armour (eg. inside tanks). The
radiation produced by the neutron bombs canradiation produced by the neutron bombs can
easily penetrate the armour of the tanks andeasily penetrate the armour of the tanks and
kill the humans inside them.kill the humans inside them.

14. SALTED NUCLEAR WEAPONSSALTED NUCLEAR WEAPONS
 Salted nuclear weapons, or cobalt bombs, are thermonuclearSalted nuclear weapons, or cobalt bombs, are thermonuclear
weapons which are designed to produce a large amount ofweapons which are designed to produce a large amount of
long lasting radioactive fallout.long lasting radioactive fallout.
 This would result in large scale radioactive contamination ofThis would result in large scale radioactive contamination of
the area they are dropped in. The difference between thethe area they are dropped in. The difference between the
fallout from the salted weapons and the unsalted one is that thefallout from the salted weapons and the unsalted one is that the
former is much more in quantity and also has a much longerformer is much more in quantity and also has a much longer
lifetime.lifetime.
 The fallout remains radioactive for much longer. The longThe fallout remains radioactive for much longer. The long
term effects of such weapons would therefore be much worse.term effects of such weapons would therefore be much worse.
 These weapons are called Doomsday Devices since they couldThese weapons are called Doomsday Devices since they could
possibly kill everyone on earth.possibly kill everyone on earth.

15. DETONATION TECHNIQUESDETONATION TECHNIQUES
ofof
ATOMIC BOMBSATOMIC BOMBS
 There are three techniques to bring theThere are three techniques to bring the
subcritical masses together into a supercriticalsubcritical masses together into a supercritical
mass.These are given below:mass.These are given below:
 Gun-triggeredGun-triggered
 Implosion-triggeredImplosion-triggered
 Modern Implosion-triggeredModern Implosion-triggered

16.  Neutrons are introduced by making aNeutrons are introduced by making a neutron generatorneutron generator. This generator is. This generator is
a small pellet of polonium and beryllium, separated by foil within thea small pellet of polonium and beryllium, separated by foil within the
fissionable fuel core. In this generator:fissionable fuel core. In this generator:
 The foil is broken when the subcritical masses come together and poloniumThe foil is broken when the subcritical masses come together and polonium
spontaneously emits alpha particles.spontaneously emits alpha particles.
 These alpha particles then collide with beryllium-9 to produce beryllium-8These alpha particles then collide with beryllium-9 to produce beryllium-8
and free neutrons.and free neutrons.
 The neutrons then initiate fission.The neutrons then initiate fission.
 Finally, the fission reaction is confined within a dense material called aFinally, the fission reaction is confined within a dense material called a
tampertamper, which is usually made of uranium-238. The tamper gets heated, which is usually made of uranium-238. The tamper gets heated
and expanded by the fission core. This expansion of the tamper exertsand expanded by the fission core. This expansion of the tamper exerts
pressure back on the fission core and slows the core's expansion. Thepressure back on the fission core and slows the core's expansion. The
tamper also reflects neutrons back into the fission core, increasing thetamper also reflects neutrons back into the fission core, increasing the
efficiency of the fission reaction.efficiency of the fission reaction.

17. Gun-triggered TechniqueGun-triggered Technique
 The simplest way to bringThe simplest way to bring
the subcritical massesthe subcritical masses
together is to make a guntogether is to make a gun
that fires one mass into thethat fires one mass into the
other. A sphere of U-235 isother. A sphere of U-235 is
made around the neutronmade around the neutron
generator and a smallgenerator and a small bulletbullet
of U-235 is removed. Theof U-235 is removed. The
bullet is placed at the onebullet is placed at the one
end of a long tube withend of a long tube with
explosives behind it, whileexplosives behind it, while
the sphere is placed at thethe sphere is placed at the
other end.other end.

18.  A barometric-pressure sensorA barometric-pressure sensor
determines the appropriate altitudedetermines the appropriate altitude
for detonation and triggers thefor detonation and triggers the
following sequence of events:following sequence of events:
 The explosives fire and propel theThe explosives fire and propel the
bullet down the barrel.bullet down the barrel.
 The bullet strikes the sphere andThe bullet strikes the sphere and
generator, initiating the fissiongenerator, initiating the fission
reaction.reaction.
 The fission reaction begins.The fission reaction begins.
 The bomb explodes.The bomb explodes.
 Example:Little BoyExample:Little Boy was this type ofwas this type of
bomb and had a 14.5-kiloton yieldbomb and had a 14.5-kiloton yield
(equal to 14,500 tons of TNT) with(equal to 14,500 tons of TNT) with
an efficiency of about 1.5 percent.an efficiency of about 1.5 percent.
That is, 1.5 percent of the materialThat is, 1.5 percent of the material
was fissioned before the explosionwas fissioned before the explosion
carried the material away.carried the material away.

19. Implosion-Triggered TechniqueImplosion-Triggered Technique
 The implosion deviceThe implosion device
consisted of a sphere ofconsisted of a sphere of
uranium-235 (tamper) and auranium-235 (tamper) and a
plutonium-239 coreplutonium-239 core
surrounded by highsurrounded by high
explosives. When the bombexplosives. When the bomb
was detonated, this is whatwas detonated, this is what
happened:happened:
 The explosives fired,The explosives fired,
creating a shock wave.creating a shock wave.
 The shock wave compressedThe shock wave compressed
the core.the core.
 The fission reaction began.The fission reaction began.
 The bomb exploded.The bomb exploded.

20.  Example:Example:Fat ManFat Man waswas
this type of bomb andthis type of bomb and
had a 23-kiloton yieldhad a 23-kiloton yield
with an efficiency of 17with an efficiency of 17
percent. These bombspercent. These bombs
exploded in fractions ofexploded in fractions of
a second. The fissiona second. The fission
usually occurred in 560usually occurred in 560
billionths of a second.billionths of a second.

21. Modern Implosion-TriggeredModern Implosion-Triggered
TechniqueTechnique
 In a later modification of the implosion-In a later modification of the implosion-
triggered design, here is what happens:triggered design, here is what happens:
 The explosives fire, creating a shock wave.The explosives fire, creating a shock wave.
 The shock wave propels the plutonium piecesThe shock wave propels the plutonium pieces
together into a sphere.together into a sphere.
 The plutonium pieces strike a pellet ofThe plutonium pieces strike a pellet of
beryllium/polonium at the center.beryllium/polonium at the center.
 The fission reaction begins.The fission reaction begins.
 The bomb explodes.The bomb explodes.

22. The Mechanism of the BombThe Mechanism of the Bomb
 AltimeterAltimeter
 As the bomb begins to descend, the altimeter transmitter sends out a pulse startingAs the bomb begins to descend, the altimeter transmitter sends out a pulse starting
at 4200 MHz. When that pulse returns, the altimeter transmitter emits a higherat 4200 MHz. When that pulse returns, the altimeter transmitter emits a higher
frequency. The difference depends on how long the pulse has taken to return to thefrequency. The difference depends on how long the pulse has taken to return to the
altimeter. When these two frequencies are mixed electronically, a new frequency isaltimeter. When these two frequencies are mixed electronically, a new frequency is
measured by microchips that are built into the bomb. This value gives the actualmeasured by microchips that are built into the bomb. This value gives the actual
height. The altimeter errs within five feet, which is not a major concern because theheight. The altimeter errs within five feet, which is not a major concern because the
normal air burst setting for an atomic bomb is 1,980 feet.normal air burst setting for an atomic bomb is 1,980 feet.
 Air Pressure DetonatorAir Pressure Detonator
 At high altitudes, the air is of lesser pressure. As the altitude drops, the pressureAt high altitudes, the air is of lesser pressure. As the altitude drops, the pressure
increases. A piece of very thin magnetized metal can be used for an air pressureincreases. A piece of very thin magnetized metal can be used for an air pressure
detonator. The strip of metal must only have a bubble of very thin metal in thedetonator. The strip of metal must only have a bubble of very thin metal in the
center and have it placed directly underneath the electrical contact which willcenter and have it placed directly underneath the electrical contact which will
trigger the conventional explosive detonation.The bubble must be pushed so that ittrigger the conventional explosive detonation.The bubble must be pushed so that it
is inverted. When the air pressure has reached the correct level, the bubble willis inverted. When the air pressure has reached the correct level, the bubble will
snap back into place, hitting the contact, completing the circuit and setting off thesnap back into place, hitting the contact, completing the circuit and setting off the
explosiveexplosive

23.  Detonating HeadDetonating Head
 The detonating head simply serves as a catalyst to make a bigger explosion. TheThe detonating head simply serves as a catalyst to make a bigger explosion. The
calibration of this is extremely important. A detonating head that is too small willcalibration of this is extremely important. A detonating head that is too small will
only cause the bomb to fail. It will be even more dangerous because someone willonly cause the bomb to fail. It will be even more dangerous because someone will
have to disarm and refit the bomb with another head. The detonating head willhave to disarm and refit the bomb with another head. The detonating head will
receive an electrical charge from either the air pressure detonator or the altimeter.receive an electrical charge from either the air pressure detonator or the altimeter.
 Conventional Explosive ChargeConventional Explosive Charge
 This is used to weld the greater amount of Uranium to the lesser within the bomb'sThis is used to weld the greater amount of Uranium to the lesser within the bomb's
housing.housing.
 Neutron DeflectorNeutron Deflector
 The neutron deflector is made out of U-238 because it is non-fissionable and hasThe neutron deflector is made out of U-238 because it is non-fissionable and has
the power to reflect neutrons back to their original source. In the Uranium bomb,the power to reflect neutrons back to their original source. In the Uranium bomb,
the neutron deflector is a safeguard to keep accidental supercritical mass fromthe neutron deflector is a safeguard to keep accidental supercritical mass from
occurring. In the Plutonium bomb it helps the wedges of Plutonium retain theiroccurring. In the Plutonium bomb it helps the wedges of Plutonium retain their
neutrons by reflecting them back to the center.neutrons by reflecting them back to the center.

24.  Lead ShieldLead Shield
 The lead shield's purpose is to prevent theThe lead shield's purpose is to prevent the
radioactivity of the bomb's payload from interferingradioactivity of the bomb's payload from interfering
with the rest of the mechanisms of the bomb. Withoutwith the rest of the mechanisms of the bomb. Without
this, premature detonation is likely to happen.this, premature detonation is likely to happen.
 FusesFuses
 The fuses serve as another safeguard againstThe fuses serve as another safeguard against
accidental detonation. They are placed near theaccidental detonation. They are placed near the
surface of the nose of the bomb so they can besurface of the nose of the bomb so they can be
installed easily during flight. They are installed onlyinstalled easily during flight. They are installed only
shortly before the bomb is launched, or a disaster isshortly before the bomb is launched, or a disaster is
asked for.asked for.

25. Effects of Nuclear WeaponsEffects of Nuclear Weapons
 There are two types of effects:There are two types of effects:
 Typical EffectsTypical Effects
 General EffectsGeneral Effects
 The effects of a nuclear explosion depend inThe effects of a nuclear explosion depend in
part to the height of the detonation frompart to the height of the detonation from
GROUND ZERO.GROUND ZERO.

26. GROUND ZEROGROUND ZERO
 The centre of the bomb blast is called the hypocenterThe centre of the bomb blast is called the hypocenter
or ground zero of explosion.or ground zero of explosion.
 The term "ground zero" refers to the point on theThe term "ground zero" refers to the point on the
earth's surface immediately below (or above) theearth's surface immediately below (or above) the
point of detonation.point of detonation.
 For a burst over (or under) water, the correspondingFor a burst over (or under) water, the corresponding
point is generally called "surface zero". The termpoint is generally called "surface zero". The term
"surface zero" or "surface ground zero" is also"surface zero" or "surface ground zero" is also
commonly used for ground surface and undergroundcommonly used for ground surface and underground
explosions.explosions.

27. Types Of Nuclear ExplosionsTypes Of Nuclear Explosions
 There is general classifications of bursts:There is general classifications of bursts:
 Air burstsAir bursts
 High-altitude burstsHigh-altitude bursts
 Surface burstsSurface bursts
 Subsurface burstsSubsurface bursts

28. Typical EffectsTypical Effects
 These are sub-divided as:These are sub-divided as:
 Blast and ShockBlast and Shock
 Thermal EffectsThermal Effects
 Nuclear RadiationsNuclear Radiations
 Electromagnetic Pulse Effect (EMP)Electromagnetic Pulse Effect (EMP)
 Transient Radiation Effect on ElectronicsTransient Radiation Effect on Electronics
(TREE)(TREE)

29. BLAST and SHOCKBLAST and SHOCK
 Blast waveBlast wave
 The effects of the blastThe effects of the blast
wave on a typical woodwave on a typical wood
framed house.framed house.
 OverpressureOverpressure

30. Overpressure Physical EffectsOverpressure Physical Effects
 20 psi Heavily built concrete buildings are severely20 psi Heavily built concrete buildings are severely
damaged or demolished.damaged or demolished.
 10 psi Reinforced concrete buildings are severely10 psi Reinforced concrete buildings are severely
damaged or demolished.Most peopledamaged or demolished.Most people
are killed.are killed.
 5 psi Most buildings collapse.Injuries are5 psi Most buildings collapse.Injuries are
universal, fatalities are widespread.universal, fatalities are widespread.
 3 psi Residential structures collapse. Serious3 psi Residential structures collapse. Serious
injuries are common, fatalities may occur.injuries are common, fatalities may occur.
 1 psi Window glass shatters. Light injuries from1 psi Window glass shatters. Light injuries from
fragments occur.fragments occur.

31. The Mach StemThe Mach Stem
 If the explosion occurs above theIf the explosion occurs above the
ground, when the expanding blastground, when the expanding blast
wave strikes the surface of the earth,wave strikes the surface of the earth,
it is reflected off the ground to form ait is reflected off the ground to form a
second shock wave traveling behindsecond shock wave traveling behind
the first. This reflected wave travelsthe first. This reflected wave travels
faster than the first, or incident, shockfaster than the first, or incident, shock
wave since it is traveling through airwave since it is traveling through air
already moving at high speed due toalready moving at high speed due to
the passage of the incident wave. Thethe passage of the incident wave. The
reflected blast wave merges with thereflected blast wave merges with the
incident shock wave to form a singleincident shock wave to form a single
wave, known as the Mach Stem.wave, known as the Mach Stem.
 The overpressure at the front of theThe overpressure at the front of the
Mach wave is generally about twiceMach wave is generally about twice
as great as that at the direct blastas great as that at the direct blast
wave front.wave front.

32. Thermal EffectsThermal Effects
 Fire Ball formationFire Ball formation
 First picture is takenFirst picture is taken
shortly after detonation.shortly after detonation.
 In second picture allIn second picture all
components of nuclearcomponents of nuclear
explosion are illustrated.explosion are illustrated.

33.  Mushroom CloudMushroom Cloud
 First picture shows earlyFirst picture shows early
formation of mashroomformation of mashroom
cloud.cloud.
 In 2In 2ndnd
picture apicture a
mushroom cloud atmushroom cloud at
navada test site isnavada test site is
shown.shown.

34. Thermal Pulse EffectThermal Pulse Effect
 One of the important differences between a nuclear andOne of the important differences between a nuclear and
conventional weapon is the large proportion of a nuclearconventional weapon is the large proportion of a nuclear
explosion's energy that is released in the form of thermal energy.explosion's energy that is released in the form of thermal energy.
 This energy is emitted from the fireball in two pulses.This energy is emitted from the fireball in two pulses.
 The first is quite short, and carries only about 1 percent of theThe first is quite short, and carries only about 1 percent of the
energy;energy;
 the second pulse is more significant and is of longer duration (upthe second pulse is more significant and is of longer duration (up
to 20 seconds).to 20 seconds).
 The energy from the thermal pulse can initiate fires in dry,The energy from the thermal pulse can initiate fires in dry,
flammable materials, such as dry leaves, grass, old newspaper, thinflammable materials, such as dry leaves, grass, old newspaper, thin
dark flammable fabrics, etc. The incendiary effect of the thermaldark flammable fabrics, etc. The incendiary effect of the thermal
pulse is also substantially affected by the later arrival of the blastpulse is also substantially affected by the later arrival of the blast
wave, which usually blows out any flames that have already beenwave, which usually blows out any flames that have already been
kindled. However, smoldering material can reignite later.kindled. However, smoldering material can reignite later.

35. FirestormsFirestorms
 For a firestorm to develop:For a firestorm to develop:
 There must be at least 8There must be at least 8
pounds of combustibles perpounds of combustibles per
square foot.square foot.
 At least one-half of theAt least one-half of the
structures in the area are onstructures in the area are on
fire simultaneously.fire simultaneously.
 There is initially a wind ofThere is initially a wind of
less than 8 miles per hour.less than 8 miles per hour.
 The burning area is at leastThe burning area is at least
0.5 square miles.0.5 square miles.
 The firestorm atThe firestorm at
Hiroshima.Hiroshima.

36. Nuclear RadiationNuclear Radiation
 The release of radiation is a phenomenon unique to nuclear explosions.The release of radiation is a phenomenon unique to nuclear explosions.
 There are several kinds of radiation emitted; these types include gamma,There are several kinds of radiation emitted; these types include gamma,
neutron, and ionizing radiation, and are emitted not only at the time ofneutron, and ionizing radiation, and are emitted not only at the time of
detonation (initial radiation) but also for long periods of time afterwarddetonation (initial radiation) but also for long periods of time afterward
(residual radiation).(residual radiation).
 Initial Nuclear RadiationInitial Nuclear Radiation
 Initial nuclear radiation is defined as the radiation that arrives during theInitial nuclear radiation is defined as the radiation that arrives during the
first minute after an explosion, and is mostly gamma radiation and neutronfirst minute after an explosion, and is mostly gamma radiation and neutron
radiation.radiation.
 Residual Nuclear RadiationResidual Nuclear Radiation
 The residual radiation from a nuclear explosion is mostly from theThe residual radiation from a nuclear explosion is mostly from the
radioactive fallout. This radiation comes from the weapon debris, fissionradioactive fallout. This radiation comes from the weapon debris, fission
products, and, in the case of a ground burst, radiated soil.products, and, in the case of a ground burst, radiated soil.

37. Radioactive FalloutRadioactive Fallout
 Fallout is the radioactive particlesFallout is the radioactive particles
that fall to earth as a result of athat fall to earth as a result of a
nuclear explosion.nuclear explosion.
 It consists of weapon debris,It consists of weapon debris,
fission products, and, in the casefission products, and, in the case
of a ground burst, radiated soil.of a ground burst, radiated soil.
 Fallout particles vary in size fromFallout particles vary in size from
thousandths of a millimeter tothousandths of a millimeter to
several millimeters.several millimeters.
 Fallout ParticlesFallout Particles
 Strontium 90Strontium 90
 Iodine 131Iodine 131
 Cesium 137Cesium 137
 The Fallout PatternThe Fallout Pattern

38. Transient Radiation Effects onTransient Radiation Effects on
Electronics (TREE):Electronics (TREE):
 A nuclear detonation causes transient initial nuclear radiation, specificallyA nuclear detonation causes transient initial nuclear radiation, specifically
gamma rays and neutrons, that can affect electronics systems andgamma rays and neutrons, that can affect electronics systems and
associated circuitry including radios and computers.associated circuitry including radios and computers.
 Gamma rays and neutrons travel considerable distances and can penetrateGamma rays and neutrons travel considerable distances and can penetrate
deep into materials and electronic devices, causing significant damage todeep into materials and electronic devices, causing significant damage to
these systems. Although the initial nuclear radiation may pass throughthese systems. Although the initial nuclear radiation may pass through
material and equipment in a matter of seconds, the damage can bematerial and equipment in a matter of seconds, the damage can be
permanent. While all electronics are susceptible to the effects of TREE,permanent. While all electronics are susceptible to the effects of TREE,
smaller, solid-state electronics such as transistors and integrated circuitssmaller, solid-state electronics such as transistors and integrated circuits
are most vulnerable to these effects. There are two situations whereare most vulnerable to these effects. There are two situations where
Transient Radiation Effects on Electronics (TREE) consequences are mostTransient Radiation Effects on Electronics (TREE) consequences are most
significant. The first is in the event of a high-altitude burst, where spacesignificant. The first is in the event of a high-altitude burst, where space
systems may receive large doses of prompt, initial nuclear radiation in thesystems may receive large doses of prompt, initial nuclear radiation in the
form of gamma rays and neutrons. The second is following a low-yieldform of gamma rays and neutrons. The second is following a low-yield
surface or near-surface (low air) burst when the gamma rays and neutronssurface or near-surface (low air) burst when the gamma rays and neutrons
can reach targets not damaged by blast and thermal radiation.can reach targets not damaged by blast and thermal radiation.

39. General EffectsGeneral Effects
 These are sub-divided as:These are sub-divided as:
 EMPEMP
 Ozone DepletionOzone Depletion
 Nuclear WinterNuclear Winter
 Nuclear SummerNuclear Summer
 EarthquakesEarthquakes

40. Electromagnetic PulseElectromagnetic Pulse
 Electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is an electromagnetic wave similar to radioElectromagnetic pulse (EMP) is an electromagnetic wave similar to radio
waves, which results from secondary reactions occurring when the nuclearwaves, which results from secondary reactions occurring when the nuclear
gamma radiation is absorbed in the air or ground.gamma radiation is absorbed in the air or ground.
 It differs from the usual radio waves in two important ways.It differs from the usual radio waves in two important ways.
 First, it creates much higher electric field strengths. Whereas a radio signalFirst, it creates much higher electric field strengths. Whereas a radio signal
might produce a thousandth of a volt or less in a receiving antenna, anmight produce a thousandth of a volt or less in a receiving antenna, an
EMP pulse might produce thousands of volts.EMP pulse might produce thousands of volts.
 Secondly, it is a single pulse of energy that disappears completely in aSecondly, it is a single pulse of energy that disappears completely in a
small fraction of a second. In this sense, it is rather similar to the electricalsmall fraction of a second. In this sense, it is rather similar to the electrical
signal from lightning, but the rise in voltage is typically a hundred timessignal from lightning, but the rise in voltage is typically a hundred times
faster. This means that most equipment designed to protect electricalfaster. This means that most equipment designed to protect electrical
facilities from lightning works too slowly to be effective against EMP.facilities from lightning works too slowly to be effective against EMP.

41.  There is no evidence that EMP is a physical threat toThere is no evidence that EMP is a physical threat to
humans. However, electrical or electronic systems,humans. However, electrical or electronic systems,
particularly those connected to long wires such asparticularly those connected to long wires such as
power lines or antennas, can undergo damage. Therepower lines or antennas, can undergo damage. There
could be actual physical damage to an electricalcould be actual physical damage to an electrical
component or a temporary disruption of operation.component or a temporary disruption of operation.
 An attacker might detonate a few weapons at highAn attacker might detonate a few weapons at high
altitudes in an effort to destroy or damage thealtitudes in an effort to destroy or damage the
communications and electric power systems. It can becommunications and electric power systems. It can be
expected that EMP would cause massive disruptionexpected that EMP would cause massive disruption
for an indeterminable period, and would cause hugefor an indeterminable period, and would cause huge
economic damages.economic damages.

42. Ozone DepletionOzone Depletion
 When a nuclear weaponWhen a nuclear weapon
explodes in the air, theexplodes in the air, the
surrounding air is subjectedsurrounding air is subjected
to great heat, followed byto great heat, followed by
relatively rapid cooling.relatively rapid cooling.
These conditions are idealThese conditions are ideal
for the production offor the production of
tremendous amounts oftremendous amounts of
nitric oxides. These oxidesnitric oxides. These oxides
are carried into the upperare carried into the upper
atmosphere, where theyatmosphere, where they
reduce the concentration ofreduce the concentration of
protective ozone.protective ozone.

43.  Nuclear WinterNuclear Winter
 Nuclear SummerNuclear Summer
 EarthquakeEarthquake
 The pressure wave from an underground explosionThe pressure wave from an underground explosion
will propagate through the ground and cause a minorwill propagate through the ground and cause a minor
earthquakeearthquake. Theory suggests that a nuclear explosion. Theory suggests that a nuclear explosion
could trigger fault rupture and cause a major quake atcould trigger fault rupture and cause a major quake at
distances within a few tens of kilometers from thedistances within a few tens of kilometers from the
shot point.shot point.

44. The Effect of Nuclear Explosions onThe Effect of Nuclear Explosions on
Human HealthHuman Health
 . The. The medical effects of a nuclear blastmedical effects of a nuclear blast upon humans can be put into fourupon humans can be put into four
categories:categories:
 thethe initialinitial stage, the first 1-2 weeks,stage, the first 1-2 weeks, the greatest amount of deaths are inthe greatest amount of deaths are in
this period with 90% due tothis period with 90% due to thermalthermal injury and or blast effects and 10%injury and or blast effects and 10%
due to supralethaldue to supralethal radiationradiation exposure,exposure,
 thethe intermediateintermediate stage from 3-8 weeksstage from 3-8 weeks the deaths in this period are fromthe deaths in this period are from
ionization radiation in the median lethal range, andionization radiation in the median lethal range, and
 thethe latelate period lasting from 8-20 weeksperiod lasting from 8-20 weeks, this period has some, this period has some
improvement in survivors condition andimprovement in survivors condition and
 delayeddelayed period from 20+ weeks.period from 20+ weeks. The last section is characterized byThe last section is characterized by
“numerous complications, mostly related to healing of thermal and“numerous complications, mostly related to healing of thermal and
mechanical injuries coupled with infertility, subfretility and bloodmechanical injuries coupled with infertility, subfretility and blood
disorders caused by radiation.” Also, ionizing radiation from fallout candisorders caused by radiation.” Also, ionizing radiation from fallout can
cause genetic effects, birth defects, cancer cataracts and other effects incause genetic effects, birth defects, cancer cataracts and other effects in
organs and tissue.organs and tissue.

45. Blast Effects on HumansBlast Effects on Humans
 Blast damage is caused by the arrival ofBlast damage is caused by the arrival of
the shock wave created by the nuclearthe shock wave created by the nuclear
explosion. Humans are actually quiteexplosion. Humans are actually quite
resistant to the direct effect ofresistant to the direct effect of
overpressure. Pressures of over 40 psi areoverpressure. Pressures of over 40 psi are
required before lethal effects are noted.required before lethal effects are noted.
 The danger from overpressure comes fromThe danger from overpressure comes from
the collapse of buildings that are generallythe collapse of buildings that are generally
not as resistant. Urban areas contain manynot as resistant. Urban areas contain many
objects that can become airborne, and theobjects that can become airborne, and the
destruction of buildings generates manydestruction of buildings generates many
more. The collapse of the structure abovemore. The collapse of the structure above
can crush or suffocate those caught inside.can crush or suffocate those caught inside.
Serious injury or death can also occur fromSerious injury or death can also occur from
impact after being thrown through the air.impact after being thrown through the air.
 The blast also magnifies thermal radiationThe blast also magnifies thermal radiation
burn injuries by tearing away severelyburn injuries by tearing away severely
burned skin. This creates raw open woundsburned skin. This creates raw open wounds
that readily become infected.that readily become infected.
 Blast effects on a concrete building atBlast effects on a concrete building at
Hiroshima.Hiroshima.

46. Thermal Radiation Effect OnThermal Radiation Effect On
Humans:Humans:
 Flash BurnsFlash Burns
 Flash blindnessFlash blindness

47. Radiation Effects on HumansRadiation Effects on Humans
 The effects of radiation on the human body vary, dependingThe effects of radiation on the human body vary, depending
on the dosage of radiation, and whether exposure is slow andon the dosage of radiation, and whether exposure is slow and
protracted or large and instantaneous.protracted or large and instantaneous.
 Extremely high doses: 4000-5000 radsExtremely high doses: 4000-5000 rads
 High doses: 1000-4000 radsHigh doses: 1000-4000 rads
 Moderate doses: 400-1000 radsModerate doses: 400-1000 rads
 Low Doses: 100-400 radsLow Doses: 100-400 rads
 Acute Radiation SyndromeAcute Radiation Syndrome

48. Late Effects Of RadiationsLate Effects Of Radiations
 Delayed effects of radiation exposure, largely secondary to blood vessel damage, are theDelayed effects of radiation exposure, largely secondary to blood vessel damage, are the
impaired functioning of and degenerative changes in many organs, particularly bone marrow,impaired functioning of and degenerative changes in many organs, particularly bone marrow,
kidneys, lungs, and the lens of the eye. The most serious late effect of radiation exposure is akidneys, lungs, and the lens of the eye. The most serious late effect of radiation exposure is a
significantly increased incidence of leukemia and thyroid, lung, and breast cancers (comparedsignificantly increased incidence of leukemia and thyroid, lung, and breast cancers (compared
to the average figure among people exposed to doses of less than 100 rads). There is also anto the average figure among people exposed to doses of less than 100 rads). There is also an
increased incidence of leukemia, lung cancer, radiation-induced anemia, and bone cancerincreased incidence of leukemia, lung cancer, radiation-induced anemia, and bone cancer
among people exposed to lower doses of radiation. The type of cancer depends on how theamong people exposed to lower doses of radiation. The type of cancer depends on how the
radiation exposure occurs.radiation exposure occurs.
 Several factors are involved in determining the potential health effects of exposure toSeveral factors are involved in determining the potential health effects of exposure to
radiation. These include:radiation. These include:
 The size of the dose (amount of energy deposited in the body)The size of the dose (amount of energy deposited in the body)
 The ability of the radiation to harm human tissueThe ability of the radiation to harm human tissue
 Which organs are affectedWhich organs are affected
 The most important factor is the amount of the dose - the amount of energy actually depositedThe most important factor is the amount of the dose - the amount of energy actually deposited
in your body. The more energy absorbed by cells, the greater the biological damage. Healthin your body. The more energy absorbed by cells, the greater the biological damage. Health
physicists refer to the amount of energy absorbed by the body as the radiation dose.physicists refer to the amount of energy absorbed by the body as the radiation dose.
 For beta, gamma and X-ray radiation, this number is generally one. For some neutrons,For beta, gamma and X-ray radiation, this number is generally one. For some neutrons,
protons, or alpha particles, the number is twenty.protons, or alpha particles, the number is twenty.

49. Effects Of Radiation On DifferentEffects Of Radiation On Different
Parts Of BodyParts Of Body
 HairHair
 BrainBrain
 ThyroidThyroid
 Blood SystemBlood System
 HeartHeart
 Gastrointestinal TractGastrointestinal Tract

50. Long Term EffectsLong Term Effects
 Long after the acute effects of radiation haveLong after the acute effects of radiation have
subsided, radiation damage continues to produce asubsided, radiation damage continues to produce a
wide range of physical problems. These effects-wide range of physical problems. These effects-
including leukemia, cancer, and many others- appearincluding leukemia, cancer, and many others- appear
two, three, even ten years later.two, three, even ten years later.
 Blood DisordersBlood Disorders
 CataractsCataracts
 Malignant TumorsMalignant Tumors
 KeloidsKeloids

51. Types Of BombsTypes Of Bombs
 Just like ice-cream in which ingredients remain same but for differentJust like ice-cream in which ingredients remain same but for different
tastes we use different flavors. So is the case with bombs main terminologytastes we use different flavors. So is the case with bombs main terminology
remains same but kind of weapon is changed according to additiveremains same but kind of weapon is changed according to additive
material.material.
 There are different types of bombs:There are different types of bombs:
 FISSION BOMBSFISSION BOMBS
 FUSION BOMBSFUSION BOMBS
 NEUTRON BOMBSNEUTRON BOMBS
 E-BOMBSE-BOMBS
 SMART BOMBSSMART BOMBS
 DIRTY BOMBSDIRTY BOMBS
 BIOLOGICAL WEAPONSBIOLOGICAL WEAPONS
 CHEMICAL WEAPONSCHEMICAL WEAPONS
 CLUSTER BOMBSCLUSTER BOMBS
 DOOMSDAY BOMBSDOOMSDAY BOMBS

52. FUSION BOMBSFUSION BOMBS
 Fission bombs worked, but they weren't very efficient. FusionFission bombs worked, but they weren't very efficient. Fusion
bombs, also calledbombs, also called thermonuclearthermonuclear bombs orbombs or HydrogenHydrogen
bombs, have higher kiloton yields and greater efficiencies thanbombs, have higher kiloton yields and greater efficiencies than
fission bombs. To design a fusion bomb, some problems havefission bombs. To design a fusion bomb, some problems have
to be solved:to be solved:
 Deuterium and tritium, the fuel for fusion, are both gases,Deuterium and tritium, the fuel for fusion, are both gases,
which are hard to store.which are hard to store.
 Tritium is in short supply and has a shortTritium is in short supply and has a short half-lifehalf-life, so the fuel, so the fuel
in the bomb would have to be continuously replenished.in the bomb would have to be continuously replenished.
 Deuterium or tritium has to be highly compressed at highDeuterium or tritium has to be highly compressed at high
temperature to initiate the fusion reaction.temperature to initiate the fusion reaction.

53. Development of bombDevelopment of bomb
 First, to store deuterium, the gas could be chemicallyFirst, to store deuterium, the gas could be chemically
combined with lithium to make a solid lithium-deuteratecombined with lithium to make a solid lithium-deuterate
compound. To overcome the tritium problem, the bombcompound. To overcome the tritium problem, the bomb
designers recognized that the neutrons from a fission reactiondesigners recognized that the neutrons from a fission reaction
could produce tritium from lithium (lithium-6 plus a neutroncould produce tritium from lithium (lithium-6 plus a neutron
yields tritium and helium-4; lithium-7 plus a neutron yieldsyields tritium and helium-4; lithium-7 plus a neutron yields
tritium, helium-4 and a neutron). That meant that tritiumtritium, helium-4 and a neutron). That meant that tritium
would not have to be stored in the bomb. Finally,would not have to be stored in the bomb. Finally, StanislawStanislaw
UlamUlam recognized that the majority of radiation given off in arecognized that the majority of radiation given off in a
fission reaction wasfission reaction was X-raysX-rays, and that these X-rays could, and that these X-rays could
provide the high temperatures and pressures necessary toprovide the high temperatures and pressures necessary to
initiate fusion. Therefore, by encasing a fission bomb within ainitiate fusion. Therefore, by encasing a fission bomb within a
fusion bomb, several problems could be solved.fusion bomb, several problems could be solved.

54. Teller-Ulam Design of a FusionTeller-Ulam Design of a Fusion
Bomb:Bomb:
 To understand this bomb design, imagine that within a bomb casing youTo understand this bomb design, imagine that within a bomb casing you
have an implosion fission bomb and a cylinder casing of uranium-238have an implosion fission bomb and a cylinder casing of uranium-238
(tamper). Within the tamper is the lithium deuteride (fuel) and a hollow rod(tamper). Within the tamper is the lithium deuteride (fuel) and a hollow rod
of plutonium-239 in the center of the cylinder. Separating the cylinderof plutonium-239 in the center of the cylinder. Separating the cylinder
from the implosion bomb is a shield of uranium-238 and plastic foam thatfrom the implosion bomb is a shield of uranium-238 and plastic foam that
fills the remaining spaces in the bomb casing. Detonation of the bombfills the remaining spaces in the bomb casing. Detonation of the bomb
caused the following sequence of events:caused the following sequence of events:
 The fission bomb imploded, giving off X-rays.The fission bomb imploded, giving off X-rays.
 These X-rays heated the interior of the bomb and the tamper; the shieldThese X-rays heated the interior of the bomb and the tamper; the shield
prevented premature detonation of the fuel.prevented premature detonation of the fuel.
 The heat caused the tamper to expand and burn away, exerting pressureThe heat caused the tamper to expand and burn away, exerting pressure
inward against the lithium deuterate.inward against the lithium deuterate.
 The lithium deuterate was squeezed by about 30-fold.The lithium deuterate was squeezed by about 30-fold.
 The compression shock waves initiated fission in the plutonium rod.The compression shock waves initiated fission in the plutonium rod.

56.  The fissioning rod gave off radiation, heat and neutrons.The fissioning rod gave off radiation, heat and neutrons.
 The neutrons went into the lithium deuterate, combined with the lithiumThe neutrons went into the lithium deuterate, combined with the lithium
and made tritium.and made tritium.
 The combination of high temperature and pressure were sufficient forThe combination of high temperature and pressure were sufficient for
tritium-deuterium and deuterium-deuterium fusion reactions to occur,tritium-deuterium and deuterium-deuterium fusion reactions to occur,
producing more heat, radiation and neutrons.producing more heat, radiation and neutrons.
 The neutrons from the fusion reactions induced fission in the uranium-238The neutrons from the fusion reactions induced fission in the uranium-238
pieces from the tamper and shield.pieces from the tamper and shield.
 Fission of the tamper and shield pieces produced even more radiation andFission of the tamper and shield pieces produced even more radiation and
heat.heat.
 The bomb exploded.The bomb exploded.
 All of these events happened in about 600 billionths of a second (550All of these events happened in about 600 billionths of a second (550
billionths of a second for the fission bomb implosion, 50 billionths of abillionths of a second for the fission bomb implosion, 50 billionths of a
second for the fusion events). The result was an immense explosion thatsecond for the fusion events). The result was an immense explosion that
was more than 700 times greater than the Little Boy explosion: It had awas more than 700 times greater than the Little Boy explosion: It had a
10,000-kiloton yield.10,000-kiloton yield.

57. Enhanced Radiation WeaponsEnhanced Radiation Weapons
 AA neutron bombneutron bomb, technically referred to as an, technically referred to as an enhancedenhanced
radiation weaponradiation weapon (ERW), is a type of tactical(ERW), is a type of tactical nuclear weaponnuclear weapon
formerly built mainly by theformerly built mainly by the United StatesUnited States
 Release a large portion of itsRelease a large portion of its energyenergy as energeticas energetic
neutron radiationneutron radiation..
 . In terms of yield, ERWs typically produce about one-tenth. In terms of yield, ERWs typically produce about one-tenth
that of a fission-type atomic weapon.that of a fission-type atomic weapon.
 ERWs are capable of much greater destruction than anyERWs are capable of much greater destruction than any
conventional bomb. Meanwhile, relative to other nuclearconventional bomb. Meanwhile, relative to other nuclear
weapons, damage is more focused on biological material thanweapons, damage is more focused on biological material than
on material infrastructure (though extreme blast and heaton material infrastructure (though extreme blast and heat
effects are not eliminated.effects are not eliminated.

58. Technical overviewTechnical overview
 An ERW is aAn ERW is a fission-fusionfission-fusion thermonuclear weapon in which the burst ofthermonuclear weapon in which the burst of
neutronsneutrons generated by agenerated by a fusionfusion reaction is intentionally allowed to escapereaction is intentionally allowed to escape
the weapon, rather than being absorbed by its other components. Thethe weapon, rather than being absorbed by its other components. The
weapon'sweapon's X-rayX-ray mirrors and shell are made ofmirrors and shell are made of chromiumchromium oror nickelnickel so thatso that
the neutrons can escape.the neutrons can escape.
 Having low yields because neutrons are absorbed by air, so a high-yieldHaving low yields because neutrons are absorbed by air, so a high-yield
neutron bomb is not able to radiate neutrons beyond its blast range and soneutron bomb is not able to radiate neutrons beyond its blast range and so
would have no destructive advantage over a normal hydrogen bomb.would have no destructive advantage over a normal hydrogen bomb.
 Most of the injuries caused by an ERW come fromMost of the injuries caused by an ERW come from ionizing radiationionizing radiation, not, not
from heat and blast.from heat and blast.
 One of the uses for which this weapon was conceived is large-scaleOne of the uses for which this weapon was conceived is large-scale
anti-tank weaponryanti-tank weaponry. Armored vehicles offer a relatively high degree of. Armored vehicles offer a relatively high degree of
protection against heat and blast. That is, military personnel inside a tankprotection against heat and blast. That is, military personnel inside a tank
can be expected to survive a nuclear explosion at relatively close range,can be expected to survive a nuclear explosion at relatively close range,
while the vehicle'swhile the vehicle's NBCNBC protection systems ensure a high degree ofprotection systems ensure a high degree of
operability even in aoperability even in a nuclear falloutnuclear fallout environment.environment.

59.  By contrast, ER weapons are meant to kill a much higherBy contrast, ER weapons are meant to kill a much higher
percentage of enemy personnel inside such protectedpercentage of enemy personnel inside such protected
environments through the release of a higher percentage ofenvironments through the release of a higher percentage of
their yield in the form of neutron radiation, against which eventheir yield in the form of neutron radiation, against which even
tank armor is not very effective.tank armor is not very effective.
 The termThe term enhanced radiationenhanced radiation refers only to the burst ofrefers only to the burst of
neutron radiationneutron radiation released at the moment ofreleased at the moment of detonationdetonation, not to, not to
any enhancement of residual radiation in fallout.any enhancement of residual radiation in fallout.
 A neutron bomb requires considerable amounts ofA neutron bomb requires considerable amounts of tritiumtritium,,
which has awhich has a half-lifehalf-life of 12.3 years, compounding theof 12.3 years, compounding the
difficulties of extended storage. For a weapon to remaindifficulties of extended storage. For a weapon to remain
effective over time, tritium components would have to beeffective over time, tritium components would have to be
periodically replaced.periodically replaced.

60. Neutron bomb tacticsNeutron bomb tactics
 Neutron bombs could be used as strategicNeutron bombs could be used as strategic anti-ballistic missileanti-ballistic missile
weapons or as tactical weapons intended for use againstweapons or as tactical weapons intended for use against
armored forces.armored forces.
 As an anti-ballistic missile weapon, an ER warhead wasAs an anti-ballistic missile weapon, an ER warhead was
developed for thedeveloped for the SprintSprint missile system as part of themissile system as part of the
Safeguard ProgramSafeguard Program to protect United States cities andto protect United States cities and
missile silosmissile silos from incomingfrom incoming SovietSoviet warheads by damagingwarheads by damaging
their electronic components with the intensetheir electronic components with the intense neutron fluxneutron flux..
 By emitting large amounts of lethal radiation of the mostBy emitting large amounts of lethal radiation of the most
penetrating kind, ER warheads maximize the lethal range of apenetrating kind, ER warheads maximize the lethal range of a
given yield of nuclear warhead against armored targets.given yield of nuclear warhead against armored targets.
 . If a neutron bomb were detonated at the correct altitude,. If a neutron bomb were detonated at the correct altitude,
deadly levels of radiation would blanket a wide area withdeadly levels of radiation would blanket a wide area with
minimal heat and blast effects when compared to a pure bomb.minimal heat and blast effects when compared to a pure bomb.

61.  TheThe neutron fluxneutron flux can induce significant amounts of short-lived secondarycan induce significant amounts of short-lived secondary
radioactivity in the environment in the high flux region near the burstradioactivity in the environment in the high flux region near the burst
point. The alloys used in steel armor can developpoint. The alloys used in steel armor can develop radioactivityradioactivity that isthat is
dangerous for 24-48 hours. If a tank exposed to a 1 kt neutron bomb at 690dangerous for 24-48 hours. If a tank exposed to a 1 kt neutron bomb at 690
m (the effective range for immediate crew incapacitation) is immediatelym (the effective range for immediate crew incapacitation) is immediately
occupied by a new crew, they will receive a lethal dose of radiation withinoccupied by a new crew, they will receive a lethal dose of radiation within
24 hours.24 hours.
 One significant drawback of the weapon is that not all targeted troops willOne significant drawback of the weapon is that not all targeted troops will
die or be incapacitated immediately. After a brief period of nausea, manydie or be incapacitated immediately. After a brief period of nausea, many
of those hit with aboutof those hit with about 5-50 Sv of radiation5-50 Sv of radiation will experience a temporarywill experience a temporary
recovery (the latent or "recovery (the latent or "walking ghost phasewalking ghost phase") lasting days to weeks.") lasting days to weeks.
Moreover, these victims would likely be aware of their inevitable fate andMoreover, these victims would likely be aware of their inevitable fate and
react accordingly.react accordingly.

62. E-BOMBSE-BOMBS
 INTRODUCTION:INTRODUCTION:
 Example of Loadshedding.Example of Loadshedding.
 An electromagnetic bomb, or e-bomb, is a weaponAn electromagnetic bomb, or e-bomb, is a weapon
designed to take advantage of this dependency. Butdesigned to take advantage of this dependency. But
instead of simply cutting off power in an area, an e-instead of simply cutting off power in an area, an e-
bomb would actually destroy most machines that usebomb would actually destroy most machines that use
electricity. Generators would be useless, carselectricity. Generators would be useless, cars
wouldn't run, and there would be no chance ofwouldn't run, and there would be no chance of
making a phone call. In a matter of seconds, a bigmaking a phone call. In a matter of seconds, a big
enough e-bomb could thrust an entire city back 200enough e-bomb could thrust an entire city back 200
years or cripple a military unit.years or cripple a military unit.

63. The Basic IdeaThe Basic Idea
 The basic idea of an e-bomb or an electromagnetic pulseThe basic idea of an e-bomb or an electromagnetic pulse
(EMP) weapon is pretty simple.(EMP) weapon is pretty simple.
 These sorts of weapons are designed to overwhelmThese sorts of weapons are designed to overwhelm
electrical circuitry with an intense electromagnetic field.electrical circuitry with an intense electromagnetic field.
 Electromagnetic field------Electromagnetic energy and toElectromagnetic field------Electromagnetic energy and to
understand it we need to understandunderstand it we need to understand
 Electric current----Magnetic field and vice versa.Electric current----Magnetic field and vice versa.
 EXAMPLE: Radio transmitter and receiver used inEXAMPLE: Radio transmitter and receiver used in
receiving Radio Waves/signalsreceiving Radio Waves/signals
 The intense fluctuating magnetic field inducing a massiveThe intense fluctuating magnetic field inducing a massive
current in electrically conductive object -- for examplecurrent in electrically conductive object -- for example
phone lines, power lines and even metal pipes.phone lines, power lines and even metal pipes.

64. Nuclear EMP ThreatNuclear EMP Threat
 E-Bomb use the concept ofE-Bomb use the concept of
Compton Effect.Compton Effect.
 Just like photons ofJust like photons of
electromagnetic energyelectromagnetic energy
could knock loose electronscould knock loose electrons
from atoms with low atomicfrom atoms with low atomic
numbers, the photons fromnumbers, the photons from
the blast's intense gammathe blast's intense gamma
radiation knocked a largeradiation knocked a large
number of electrons freenumber of electrons free
from oxygen and nitrogenfrom oxygen and nitrogen
atoms in the atmosphere.atoms in the atmosphere.

65.  This flood of electrons interacted with the Earth'sThis flood of electrons interacted with the Earth's
magnetic field to create a fluctuating electric current,magnetic field to create a fluctuating electric current,
which induced a powerful magnetic field. Thewhich induced a powerful magnetic field. The
resulting electromagnetic pulse induced intenseresulting electromagnetic pulse induced intense
electrical currents in conductive materials over a wideelectrical currents in conductive materials over a wide
area.area.
 These weapons wouldn't affect as wide an area,These weapons wouldn't affect as wide an area,
because they wouldn't blast photons so high abovebecause they wouldn't blast photons so high above
the Earth. But they could be used to create totalthe Earth. But they could be used to create total
blackouts on a more local level.blackouts on a more local level.

66. Structure Of E-BombStructure Of E-Bomb
 This technology is advanced andThis technology is advanced and
expensive and so would beexpensive and so would be
inaccessible to military forcesinaccessible to military forces
without considerable resources.without considerable resources.
 The bomb consists of a metalThe bomb consists of a metal
cylinder (called the armature),cylinder (called the armature),
surrounded by a coil of wire (thesurrounded by a coil of wire (the
stator winding). The armaturestator winding). The armature
cylinder is filled with highcylinder is filled with high
explosive, and a sturdy jacketexplosive, and a sturdy jacket
surrounds the entire device. Thesurrounds the entire device. The
stator winding and the armaturestator winding and the armature
cylinder are separated by emptycylinder are separated by empty
space. The bomb also has a powerspace. The bomb also has a power
source, such as a bank ofsource, such as a bank of
capacitorscapacitors, which can be, which can be
connected to the stator.connected to the stator.

67. Detonation Of BombDetonation Of Bomb
 Here's the sequence of events when the bomb goes off:Here's the sequence of events when the bomb goes off:
 A switch connects the capacitors to the stator, sending an electrical currentA switch connects the capacitors to the stator, sending an electrical current
through the wires. This generates an intense magnetic field.through the wires. This generates an intense magnetic field.
 A fuze mechanism ignites the explosive material. The explosion travels asA fuze mechanism ignites the explosive material. The explosion travels as
a wave through the middle of the armature cylinder.a wave through the middle of the armature cylinder.
 As the explosion makes its way through the cylinder, the cylinder comes inAs the explosion makes its way through the cylinder, the cylinder comes in
contact with the stator winding. This creates a short circuit, cutting thecontact with the stator winding. This creates a short circuit, cutting the
stator off from its power supply.stator off from its power supply.
 The moving short circuit compresses the magnetic field, generating anThe moving short circuit compresses the magnetic field, generating an
intense electromagnetic burst.intense electromagnetic burst.
 Most likely, this type of weapon would affect a relatively small area --Most likely, this type of weapon would affect a relatively small area --
nothing on the order of a nuclear EMP attack -- but it could do somenothing on the order of a nuclear EMP attack -- but it could do some
serious damage.serious damage.

69. E-Bomb EffectsE-Bomb Effects
 it is potentially non-lethal, but is still highly destructive. An E-it is potentially non-lethal, but is still highly destructive. An E-
bomb attack would leave buildings standing and spare lives,bomb attack would leave buildings standing and spare lives,
but it could destroy a sizeable military.but it could destroy a sizeable military.
 Low-level electromagnetic pulses would temporarily jamLow-level electromagnetic pulses would temporarily jam
electronics systems,electronics systems,
 more intense pulses would corrupt important computer datamore intense pulses would corrupt important computer data
andand
 very powerful bursts would completely fry electric andvery powerful bursts would completely fry electric and
electronic equipment.electronic equipment.
 the most far-reaching effect of an e-bomb could bethe most far-reaching effect of an e-bomb could be
psychological. A full-scale EMP attack in a developed countrypsychological. A full-scale EMP attack in a developed country
would instantly bring modern life to a screeching halt. Therewould instantly bring modern life to a screeching halt. There
would be plenty of survivors, but they would find themselveswould be plenty of survivors, but they would find themselves
in a very different world.in a very different world.

70.  In modern warfare, the various levels of attack couldIn modern warfare, the various levels of attack could
accomplish a number of important combat missions withoutaccomplish a number of important combat missions without
racking up many casualties. For example, an e-bomb couldracking up many casualties. For example, an e-bomb could
effectively neutralize:effectively neutralize:
 vehicle control systemsvehicle control systems
 targeting systems, on the ground and on missiles and bombstargeting systems, on the ground and on missiles and bombs
 communications systemscommunications systems
 navigation systemsnavigation systems
 long and short-range sensor systemslong and short-range sensor systems
 EMP weapons are generally considered non-lethal, they couldEMP weapons are generally considered non-lethal, they could
easily kill people if they were directed towards particulareasily kill people if they were directed towards particular
targets. If an EMP knocked out a hospital's electricity, fortargets. If an EMP knocked out a hospital's electricity, for
example, any patient on life support would die immediately.example, any patient on life support would die immediately.

71. SMART BOMBSSMART BOMBS
 A conventional bombA conventional bomb
consists of some explosiveconsists of some explosive
material packed into amaterial packed into a
sturdy case with asturdy case with a fuzefuze
mechanism. The fuzemechanism. The fuze
mechanism has a triggeringmechanism has a triggering
device -- typically a time-device -- typically a time-
delay system, an impactdelay system, an impact
sensor or a target-proximitysensor or a target-proximity
sensor -- which sets thesensor -- which sets the
bomb off. When the triggerbomb off. When the trigger
goes off, the fuze ignites thegoes off, the fuze ignites the
explosive material, resultingexplosive material, resulting
in an explosion.in an explosion.

72.  The extreme pressure and flying debris of theThe extreme pressure and flying debris of the
explosion destroys surrounding structures.explosion destroys surrounding structures.
 A "dumb bomb" is a bomb with only these elements,A "dumb bomb" is a bomb with only these elements,
dropped from an airplane. The bomb is considereddropped from an airplane. The bomb is considered
"dumb" because it simply falls to the ground without"dumb" because it simply falls to the ground without
actively steering itself. A bomber might have to dropactively steering itself. A bomber might have to drop
dozens, or even hundreds of dumb bombs to take outdozens, or even hundreds of dumb bombs to take out
a target effectively.a target effectively.
 "Smart bombs," by contrast, control their fall"Smart bombs," by contrast, control their fall
precisely in order to hit a designated target dead on.precisely in order to hit a designated target dead on.

73. Smart Bomb BasicsSmart Bomb Basics
 A smart bomb is essentiallyA smart bomb is essentially
an ordinary dumb bomban ordinary dumb bomb
with a few majorwith a few major
modifications. In addition tomodifications. In addition to
the usual fuze and explosivethe usual fuze and explosive
material, it has:material, it has:
 an electronic sensor systeman electronic sensor system
 a built-in control system (ana built-in control system (an
onboard computer)onboard computer)
 a set of adjustable flight finsa set of adjustable flight fins
 AA batterybattery

74. Yesterday's Smart BombsYesterday's Smart Bombs
 TV/IR Guided BombsTV/IR Guided Bombs
Photo courtesyPhoto courtesy
U.S. Air ForceU.S. Air Force
The GBU-15, a TV/IRThe GBU-15, a TV/IR
smart bombsmart bomb
 LASER Guided BombsLASER Guided Bombs
Photo courtesyPhoto courtesy
U.S. Department of DefenseU.S. Department of Defense
The GBU-10 laser-The GBU-10 laser-
guided smart bombguided smart bomb

75. The JDAMThe JDAM
 The preeminent smart-The preeminent smart-
bomb technology of thebomb technology of the
day is Boeing'sday is Boeing's JDAMJDAM,,
which stands for Jointwhich stands for Joint
Direct Attack Munition.Direct Attack Munition.
The basic idea behindThe basic idea behind
the JDAM program is tothe JDAM program is to
outfit existing "dumb"outfit existing "dumb"
bombs withbombs with
sophisticated rearsophisticated rear
guidance sections.guidance sections.
 Photo courtesyPhoto courtesy
U.S. Air ForceU.S. Air Force
An F-16 drops a JDAM-An F-16 drops a JDAM-
equipped GBU-31 2,000-equipped GBU-31 2,000-
pound bomb.pound bomb.

76.  The JDAM "tail kit" includesThe JDAM "tail kit" includes
 adjustable tail fins,adjustable tail fins,
 a control computer,a control computer,
 an inertial guidance system andan inertial guidance system and
 aa GPS receiverGPS receiver..

77.  the system is accurate to within 40 feet (13 meters).the system is accurate to within 40 feet (13 meters).
 When everything goes exactly right, the bombsWhen everything goes exactly right, the bombs
generally hit within a few feet of their targets.generally hit within a few feet of their targets.
 This system works fine even in bad weather, becauseThis system works fine even in bad weather, because
the JDAM gets all its information fromthe JDAM gets all its information from satellitesatellite
signals, which aren't blocked by cloud cover orsignals, which aren't blocked by cloud cover or
obstacles. The bomb doesn't have to see anything atobstacles. The bomb doesn't have to see anything at
all to find its way to the target.all to find its way to the target.
 And at around $20,000 per tail kit (which can beAnd at around $20,000 per tail kit (which can be
added to an existing warhead), it's much moreadded to an existing warhead), it's much more
economical than $120,000+ laser-guided bombs.economical than $120,000+ laser-guided bombs.

78. DIRTY BOMBSDIRTY BOMBS
 A dirty bomb is an explosive designed to spread dangerousA dirty bomb is an explosive designed to spread dangerous
radioactive material over a wide area.radioactive material over a wide area.
 A dirty bomb is much closer in power to an ordinary explosiveA dirty bomb is much closer in power to an ordinary explosive
than it is to the widespread destructive force of athan it is to the widespread destructive force of a nuclear bombnuclear bomb
. But the fear of contamination could be debilitating.. But the fear of contamination could be debilitating.
 A dirty bomb (or radiological dispersion bomb) is a veryA dirty bomb (or radiological dispersion bomb) is a very
simple device. It's a conventional explosive, such as TNTsimple device. It's a conventional explosive, such as TNT
(trinitrotoluene), packaged with(trinitrotoluene), packaged with radioactiveradioactive material. It's a lotmaterial. It's a lot
cruder and cheaper than acruder and cheaper than a nuclear bombnuclear bomb, and it's also a lot less, and it's also a lot less
effective. But it does have the combination of explosive de-effective. But it does have the combination of explosive de-
struction and radiation damage.struction and radiation damage.

79. Basic Idea Of A Dirty BombBasic Idea Of A Dirty Bomb
 The basic idea of a dirty bomb is to use the gasThe basic idea of a dirty bomb is to use the gas
expansion as a means of propelling radioactiveexpansion as a means of propelling radioactive
material over a wide area rather than as amaterial over a wide area rather than as a
destructive force in its own right.destructive force in its own right.
 When the explosive goes off, the radioactiveWhen the explosive goes off, the radioactive
material spreads in a sort of dust cloud, carriedmaterial spreads in a sort of dust cloud, carried
by the wind, that reaches a wider area than theby the wind, that reaches a wider area than the
explosion itself.explosion itself.

80. Dirty Bomb PossibilitiesDirty Bomb Possibilities
 There is a huge range of possible dirty bomb designs.There is a huge range of possible dirty bomb designs.
Different explosive materials, applied in different quantities,Different explosive materials, applied in different quantities,
would generate explosions of varying sizes, and differentwould generate explosions of varying sizes, and different
types and quantities of radioactive material would contaminatetypes and quantities of radioactive material would contaminate
an area to different degrees. Some designs include:an area to different degrees. Some designs include:
 A small bomb, consisting of one stick of dynamite and a veryA small bomb, consisting of one stick of dynamite and a very
small amount of radioactive materialsmall amount of radioactive material
 A medium-size bomb, such as a backpack or small car filledA medium-size bomb, such as a backpack or small car filled
with explosives and a greater amount of radioactive materialwith explosives and a greater amount of radioactive material
 A large bomb, such as a truck filled with explosives and aA large bomb, such as a truck filled with explosives and a
good amount of radioactive materialgood amount of radioactive material

81. Sources Of Getting RadioactiveSources Of Getting Radioactive
MaterialMaterial
 It's not nearly as accessible as explosive material, but there are a number ofIt's not nearly as accessible as explosive material, but there are a number of
sources for radioactive material around the world. For example:sources for radioactive material around the world. For example:
 Hospitals use small quantities of radioactive material, such as cesium-137,Hospitals use small quantities of radioactive material, such as cesium-137,
inin nuclear medicinenuclear medicine..
 Universities use similar materials to conduct scientific research.Universities use similar materials to conduct scientific research.
 Food irradiation plants use radiation from cobalt-60 to kill harmful bacteriaFood irradiation plants use radiation from cobalt-60 to kill harmful bacteria
on food.on food.
 Natural radioactiveNatural radioactive uraniumuranium isotopes are mined for use in nuclear energy.isotopes are mined for use in nuclear energy.
Terrorists could conceivably acquire uranium from various mines in AfricaTerrorists could conceivably acquire uranium from various mines in Africa
 There are a number of abandoned "nuclear batteries" . These portableThere are a number of abandoned "nuclear batteries" . These portable
thermoelectric generators contain a sizable amount of strontium-90, athermoelectric generators contain a sizable amount of strontium-90, a
highly potent radioactive isotope.highly potent radioactive isotope.
 They could also put something together using various low-level radioactiveThey could also put something together using various low-level radioactive
materials available to anybody, such as the radioactive material inmaterials available to anybody, such as the radioactive material in
smoke alarmssmoke alarms..

82. Dirty Bomb DamageDirty Bomb Damage
 It's difficult to predict the extent of a dirty bomb's damageIt's difficult to predict the extent of a dirty bomb's damage
because there are a huge number of variables at work. Thebecause there are a huge number of variables at work. The
type and quantity of the explosives and radioactive materialtype and quantity of the explosives and radioactive material
make a big difference, of course, but completely randommake a big difference, of course, but completely random
things like wind speed would also have an effect.things like wind speed would also have an effect.
 The long-term destructive force of the bomb would be ionizingThe long-term destructive force of the bomb would be ionizing
radiation from the radioactive material.radiation from the radioactive material.
 Ionizing radiationIonizing radiation in a person's body makes ion can cause a lotin a person's body makes ion can cause a lot
of serious problems, leading to unnatural chemical reactionsof serious problems, leading to unnatural chemical reactions
insideinside cellscells breaking DNA chains. A cell with a broken strandbreaking DNA chains. A cell with a broken strand
of DNA will either die or mutate.of DNA will either die or mutate.
 If the DNA mutates, a cell may becomeIf the DNA mutates, a cell may become cancerouscancerous, and this, and this
cancer may spread.cancer may spread.

83.  Ionization radiation may also cause cells to malfunction,Ionization radiation may also cause cells to malfunction,
resulting in a wide variety of symptoms collectively referredresulting in a wide variety of symptoms collectively referred
to asto as radiation sicknessradiation sickness. Radiation sickness can be deadly, but. Radiation sickness can be deadly, but
people can survive it, particularly if they receive a bonepeople can survive it, particularly if they receive a bone
marrow transplant.marrow transplant.
 In a dirty bomb, the ionizing radiation would come fromIn a dirty bomb, the ionizing radiation would come from
radioactive isotopes (also called radioisotopes). Radioactiveradioactive isotopes (also called radioisotopes). Radioactive
isotopes are simply atoms that decay over time.isotopes are simply atoms that decay over time.
 A dirty bomb would boost the radiation level above normalA dirty bomb would boost the radiation level above normal
levels, increasing the risk of cancer and radiation sickness tolevels, increasing the risk of cancer and radiation sickness to
some degree. Most likely, it wouldn't kill many people rightsome degree. Most likely, it wouldn't kill many people right
away, but it could possibly kill people years down the road.away, but it could possibly kill people years down the road.

84. BIOLOGICAL WEAPONSBIOLOGICAL WEAPONS
 A biological weapon uses a bacteria or virus, or inA biological weapon uses a bacteria or virus, or in
some cases toxins that come directly from bacteria, tosome cases toxins that come directly from bacteria, to
kill people. If you were to dump a load of manure orkill people. If you were to dump a load of manure or
human waste into a town's well, that would be ahuman waste into a town's well, that would be a
simple form or biological warfare -- human andsimple form or biological warfare -- human and
animal manure contain bacteria that are deadly in aanimal manure contain bacteria that are deadly in a
variety of ways. In the 19th century, Americanvariety of ways. In the 19th century, American
Indians were infected with smallpox through donatedIndians were infected with smallpox through donated
blankets.blankets.
 A modern biological weapon would use a strain ofA modern biological weapon would use a strain of
bacteria or abacteria or a virusvirus that would kill thousands ofthat would kill thousands of
people.people.

85. Definition Of Biological WeaponDefinition Of Biological Weapon
 Biological weapons are defined as:Biological weapons are defined as:
 Microorganisms that infect and grow in the target host producing a clinicalMicroorganisms that infect and grow in the target host producing a clinical
disease that kills or incapacitates the targeted host. Such microbes may bedisease that kills or incapacitates the targeted host. Such microbes may be
natural, wild-type strains or may be the result of genetically engineerednatural, wild-type strains or may be the result of genetically engineered
organisms.organisms.
 Biologically Derived Bioactive Substances (BDBS) products ofBiologically Derived Bioactive Substances (BDBS) products of
metabolism (usually, but not always, of microbial origin) that kill ormetabolism (usually, but not always, of microbial origin) that kill or
incapacitate the targeted host. These include biological toxins, as well asincapacitate the targeted host. These include biological toxins, as well as
substances that interfere with normal behavior, such as hormones,substances that interfere with normal behavior, such as hormones,
neuropeptides and cytokines.neuropeptides and cytokines.
 Artificially Designed Biological-Mimicking Substances: With the providedArtificially Designed Biological-Mimicking Substances: With the provided
knowledge of the mechanisms of biological processes it is now possible toknowledge of the mechanisms of biological processes it is now possible to
design and manufacture substances that mimic the action of biologics. Fordesign and manufacture substances that mimic the action of biologics. For
example, we already make nerve gases and their close relatives, pesticides,example, we already make nerve gases and their close relatives, pesticides,
that act by binding specifically to receptors of targeted organisms, so itthat act by binding specifically to receptors of targeted organisms, so it
takes little imagination to predict that, as we learn more about the specificstakes little imagination to predict that, as we learn more about the specifics
of biological processes, we will be able to create "designer" substances thatof biological processes, we will be able to create "designer" substances that
can be specifically targeted to a particular cell-type in an enemy (e.g.can be specifically targeted to a particular cell-type in an enemy (e.g.
people with blond hair and blue eyes).people with blond hair and blue eyes).

86. AdvantagesAdvantages
 Requires a single microbial bioweapon as it reproduces inRequires a single microbial bioweapon as it reproduces in
the host, theoretically produce the desired detrimentalthe host, theoretically produce the desired detrimental
outcome in a target host.outcome in a target host.
 Biological toxins are among the most toxic agents known.Biological toxins are among the most toxic agents known.
For example, the quantity of botox in the dot of an ‘i’ is,For example, the quantity of botox in the dot of an ‘i’ is,
when delivered properly, enough to kill ~10 people.when delivered properly, enough to kill ~10 people.
 Most bioweapons grade microbes are relatively easy andMost bioweapons grade microbes are relatively easy and
inexpensive to grow.inexpensive to grow.
 Large quantities of biological weapons can, in most cases,Large quantities of biological weapons can, in most cases,
be produced in a short period (a few days to a few weeks)be produced in a short period (a few days to a few weeks)
at small facilities scattered over a large area.at small facilities scattered over a large area.

87. DisadvantagesDisadvantages
 Difficulty of protection of workers.Difficulty of protection of workers.
 Difficulty in maintaining quality control andDifficulty in maintaining quality control and
sufficient containment during growth andsufficient containment during growth and
harvesting of agents.harvesting of agents.
 Effective delivery problemsEffective delivery problems
 Poor storage survivalPoor storage survival
 Difficult to control once releasedDifficult to control once released

88. Characteristics Of A PerfectCharacteristics Of A Perfect
Biological WeaponBiological Weapon
 Highly infectious; requiring only a few organisms toHighly infectious; requiring only a few organisms to
cause the desired effect (e.g. smallpox) or highlycause the desired effect (e.g. smallpox) or highly
effective; requiring a small quantity of material to causeeffective; requiring a small quantity of material to cause
the desired effect (e.g. botox).the desired effect (e.g. botox).
 Efficiently dispersible, usually in the air; contagious orEfficiently dispersible, usually in the air; contagious or
effective on contact.effective on contact.
 Readily grown and produced in large quantities.Readily grown and produced in large quantities.
 Stable in storage; preferably in a ready-to-deliver state.Stable in storage; preferably in a ready-to-deliver state.
 Resistant enough to environmental conditions so as toResistant enough to environmental conditions so as to
remain infectious or operational long enough to affectremain infectious or operational long enough to affect
the majority of the target, but not so persistent as tothe majority of the target, but not so persistent as to
affect the occupying army.affect the occupying army.
 Resistant to treatment; e.g. antibiotics, antibodies,Resistant to treatment; e.g. antibiotics, antibodies,
pharmaceutical drugs etc.pharmaceutical drugs etc.

89. Targets Of A Biological WeaponTargets Of A Biological Weapon
 Biological (and chemical) weapons are apply calledBiological (and chemical) weapons are apply called
the "Poor Man’s Weapons of Mass Destruction".the "Poor Man’s Weapons of Mass Destruction".
 Biological weapons may target living organisms or anBiological weapons may target living organisms or an
environment seen as affecting the outcome of aenvironment seen as affecting the outcome of a
struggle for control.struggle for control.
 These include humans, both soldiers andThese include humans, both soldiers and
noncombatants, commercial crops and animals, thenoncombatants, commercial crops and animals, the
water supply, the soil, the air, or any combination ofwater supply, the soil, the air, or any combination of
these.these.

90. Genetically-Modified Bio Weapons:Genetically-Modified Bio Weapons:
The Ethnic BombThe Ethnic Bomb
 "Biological weapons are green weapons, they’re"Biological weapons are green weapons, they’re
biodegradable.biodegradable.
 In 1998 there was a report that the White SA governmentIn 1998 there was a report that the White SA government
had ordered a program to develop a genetic engineeredhad ordered a program to develop a genetic engineered
biological weapon that would specifically kill blacks.biological weapon that would specifically kill blacks.
 Recently Israel was working on a Biological Weapon thatRecently Israel was working on a Biological Weapon that
would specifically harm Arabs carrying certain genes.would specifically harm Arabs carrying certain genes.
 Two questions come to mind:Two questions come to mind:
 IS THIS SORT OF WEAPON POSSIBLE?IS THIS SORT OF WEAPON POSSIBLE?
 SHOULD PEOPLE EVEN BE THINKING OF SUCHSHOULD PEOPLE EVEN BE THINKING OF SUCH
THINGS?THINGS?

91. The Top Biological WeaponsThe Top Biological Weapons
 The following are prime suspects in thisThe following are prime suspects in this
rogue’s gallery of biological horrors:rogue’s gallery of biological horrors:
 SmallpoxSmallpox
 AnthraxAnthrax
 Botulinum ToxinBotulinum Toxin
 AflatoxinAflatoxin
 Clostridium perfringensClostridium perfringens
 RicinRicin

92. SmallpoxSmallpox
• The smallpox virus is a prime candidate for a BWThe smallpox virus is a prime candidate for a BW
because of the following characteristics:because of the following characteristics:
 It is a DNA virus whose genetic code has beenIt is a DNA virus whose genetic code has been
sequenced.sequenced.
 It is easily (for a virus) cultivated and large quantitiesIt is easily (for a virus) cultivated and large quantities
of the virus could be produced in a relatively shortof the virus could be produced in a relatively short
period of time.e.g,Russiaperiod of time.e.g,Russia
 It is a prime candidate for genetic engineering. It isIt is a prime candidate for genetic engineering. It is
easy to engineer it so that the current vaccines are noeasy to engineer it so that the current vaccines are no
longer effective and to add virulence factors to thelonger effective and to add virulence factors to the
smallpox genome (e.g. botox gene) that would make itsmallpox genome (e.g. botox gene) that would make it
virtually 100% fatal.virtually 100% fatal.
 It is highly infectious, being spread by close humanIt is highly infectious, being spread by close human
contact. It can be contracted by inhaling the virus.contact. It can be contracted by inhaling the virus.

93.  It is extremely hardy; surviving for days or weeks.It is extremely hardy; surviving for days or weeks.
 There is no known treatment to abate the course of theThere is no known treatment to abate the course of the
disease other than routine medical care.disease other than routine medical care.
 If you took a gram of smallpox, which is highly contagiousIf you took a gram of smallpox, which is highly contagious
and lethal, and for which there’s no vaccine availableand lethal, and for which there’s no vaccine available
globally now, and released it in the air and created about aglobally now, and released it in the air and created about a
hundred cases, the chances are excellent that the virushundred cases, the chances are excellent that the virus
would go global in six weeks as people moved from city towould go global in six weeks as people moved from city to
city……the death toll could easily hit the hundreds ofcity……the death toll could easily hit the hundreds of
millions…..in scale, that’s like a nuclear war.millions…..in scale, that’s like a nuclear war.

94. AnthraxAnthrax
 Another old favorite BW, B. anthracis, is an aerobic sporeAnother old favorite BW, B. anthracis, is an aerobic spore
forming, gram positive bacterium that is highly infectionsforming, gram positive bacterium that is highly infections
andand
 lethal to manlethal to man and many of his domestic animals.and many of his domestic animals.
 contracted through wounds but it can also be inhaled.contracted through wounds but it can also be inhaled.
 it produces a large cutaneous wound which, if the bacteriait produces a large cutaneous wound which, if the bacteria
reaches the blood stream, results in a fulminatingreaches the blood stream, results in a fulminating
septicemia that is usually fatal if untreated.septicemia that is usually fatal if untreated.
 Inhaled spores germinate in the lungs and produce aInhaled spores germinate in the lungs and produce a
pulmonary anthrax which is rapidly fatal in 80% of thepulmonary anthrax which is rapidly fatal in 80% of the
cases.cases.
 Doctors who’ve treated anthrax patients have found thatDoctors who’ve treated anthrax patients have found that
they’ll be asking a patient how he feels, and the patientthey’ll be asking a patient how he feels, and the patient
dies in mid-sentence."dies in mid-sentence."

95. Botulinum ToxinBotulinum Toxin
(BOTOX)(BOTOX)
 Production and Dispersion:Production and Dispersion:
 C. botulinum can be isolated from its natural habitat, the soilC. botulinum can be isolated from its natural habitat, the soil
and it has been obtained from culture supply houses. It is anand it has been obtained from culture supply houses. It is an
obligate anaerobe, which makes it a bit difficult to grow, butobligate anaerobe, which makes it a bit difficult to grow, but
this presents no serious obstacle to a competentthis presents no serious obstacle to a competent
microbiologist. Purification of the botox protein is notmicrobiologist. Purification of the botox protein is not
difficult. botox is relatively stable and can be stored indifficult. botox is relatively stable and can be stored in
crystalline form.crystalline form.
 It can be absorbed through the mucous membranes so aerosolIt can be absorbed through the mucous membranes so aerosol
dispersal, addition to a municipal water or food supplies aredispersal, addition to a municipal water or food supplies are
likely ways of introducing botox into a population.likely ways of introducing botox into a population.
 It is tasteless and odorless and, depending on the dosage, andIt is tasteless and odorless and, depending on the dosage, and
may take from 2 to 14 days before the symptoms appear.may take from 2 to 14 days before the symptoms appear.

96.  Symptoms:Symptoms:
 The symptoms includeThe symptoms include
 double vision,double vision,
 difficulty in swallowing and speaking,difficulty in swallowing and speaking,
 muscle weakness,muscle weakness,
 vomitingvomiting
 eventually respiratory failure.eventually respiratory failure.
 The protein is a neurotoxin and once the symptoms appear theThe protein is a neurotoxin and once the symptoms appear the
damage is irreversible (after ~48 hours). There are severaldamage is irreversible (after ~48 hours). There are several
botox immunologically unique strains. The only treatmentbotox immunologically unique strains. The only treatment
involves passive antibody shots against all the botox strainsinvolves passive antibody shots against all the botox strains

97. AflatoxinAflatoxin
• This is a class of biological carcinogens, product by certainThis is a class of biological carcinogens, product by certain
molds, that induce liver cancer.molds, that induce liver cancer.
• Man and many other animals are susceptible to thisMan and many other animals are susceptible to this
material.material.
• The molds that produces this material grows well on grain,The molds that produces this material grows well on grain,
peanuts and other rich nutrients.peanuts and other rich nutrients.
• Aflatoxins are readily extracted with ethanol and easilyAflatoxins are readily extracted with ethanol and easily
concentrated.concentrated.
• They are stable on storage, but their stability afterThey are stable on storage, but their stability after
dispersal has not been reported.dispersal has not been reported.
• The onset of the cancer is uncertain and clearly doseThe onset of the cancer is uncertain and clearly dose
dependent. As there are no known human tests on thedependent. As there are no known human tests on the
toxicity of this material, it is impossible to assign a minimaltoxicity of this material, it is impossible to assign a minimal
lethal dose.lethal dose.